One Coin, Two Sides Model: Lazy or Redefining Productivity?

Let’s use the One Coin, Two Sides model to explore the behavior of millennials. Recall that in this model, we look at how observable behaviors can be interpreted through the eyes of a traditional perspective in comparison to a millennial-based modern perspective. Keep in mind that not every older person has a traditional mindset. There are many forward thinkers and many traditional thinkers, across all age spans and generations. What we are referring to here is a particular perspective or mindset that’s not necessarily defined by age.

For this particular stereotype, the observable behavior is that millennials desire to work when and where they want. From a traditional perspective, this can be perceived as lazy because their beliefs are based in a world where putting in structured time equals work coming out. In contrast, from a modern, top talent perspective, this flexible work style is borne out of redefining what it takes to accomplish work today. Table 2.1 summarizes the observable behavior, the two sides, and the supporting beliefs.